Many international bus drivers passing through Prey Veng province have been detained for education about the Kingdom’s traffic laws. Chhoeun Bunchhorn
Prey Veng Provincial Police Chief Chhoeun Bunchhorn has vowed to end traffic violations by Vietnamese bus drivers within the next one or two months, ensuring they will not continue to disregard the Kingdom’s regulations.
The decision to address the issues caused by buses travelling between the two neighbouring countries was announced on March 6, and followed a recent traffic blitz of education and awareness activities, in line with recent instructions from the Ministry of Interior leadership.
Bunchhorn noted that several international buses passing through Prey Veng have committed traffic violations. He acknowledged that some drivers complied with the law, but all of them have been stopped and educated, although no penalties have yet been imposed.
“The issue of dangerous buses on National Road No. 1 is not a new one. The problem has existed for years, with most Vietnamese bus drivers speeding, violating laws and often taking risks. These are undeniable facts,” he said.
He added that in the past, he had regularly instructed officers to strictly enforce traffic laws against these buses, but enforcement had been ineffective as many drivers still fail to respect the rules.
“This time, I am committed to ensuring that buses on Prey Veng's roads will not continue to do whatever they want. Any officers who fail to enforce the law properly or disregard this issue will face punishment,” he reiterated.
“We hope that in one or two months, the people who use National Road No. 1 will appreciate the efforts we are making,” he added.
He acknowledged that while the traffic police may not be perfect, he, as the head of the unit, will work hard to improve the situation.
“I believe that those who enjoy committing crimes still commit them. This is difficult to correct, but we cannot have officers standing on every 100-metre stretch of road. Public participation is essential,” he added.
Bunchhorn could not be reached for future comment on March 6.
Interior minister Sar Sokha has instructed the National Police to take action should Phnom Penh-Vietnam bus drivers violate the law.
The order followed recent reports from local residents and travellers along National Road No. 1 in Kandal, Prey Veng and Svay Rieng provinces, of concerns about reckless bus drivers, who frequently violate right-of-way rules and cause accidents.
The interior ministry added that it will take further action. This includes the installation of hidden cameras to capture the activities of passenger buses and other violations related to road traffic laws, particularly speeding.
This is also a response to concerns about the safety of travellers, including tourists from Vietnam, Cambodian tourists travelling to Vietnam, and international visitors using the Phnom Penh-Vietnam bus service.
